How To Use CPT Code 66984

CPT 66984 describes the procedure for extracapsular cataract removal with the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 66984?

CPT 66984 can be used to describe the surgical procedure for removing a cataract and inserting an artificial lens in the eye. This code is used when the provider performs extracapsular cataract removal using either manual or mechanical techniques, such as irrigation and aspiration or phacoemulsification. The procedure is done in one stage and does not involve endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 66984 is: ‘Extracapsular cataract removal with insertion of intraocular lens prosthesis (1 stage procedure), manual or mechanical technique (eg, irrigation and aspiration or phacoemulsification); without endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a small incision in the eye and entering the capsule.
2. They then remove the hard nucleus from the lens of the eye and evacuate the soft lens cortex, leaving the capsule partially intact.
3. The provider may use a microscope or phacoemulsification technique to break up the cloudy lens and remove it with irrigation and aspiration.
4. After removing the cataract, the provider inserts an intraocular lens prosthesis to replace the natural lens.
5. The incision is sutured, and antibiotic solution is placed into the eye to prevent infection.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 66984 is performed on patients who require the removal of a cataract and the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis. The procedure is typically done for patients with impaired vision due to cataracts. It is important to note that this code does not include endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation or the use of an intraocular aqueous drainage device.

5. When to use CPT code 66984

CPT code 66984 should be used when the provider performs extracapsular cataract removal with the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis using manual or mechanical techniques. This code is appropriate for a one-stage procedure without endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 66984, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for cataract removal
• Details of the procedure performed, including the technique used (manual or mechanical)
• Date of the procedure
• Specifics of the intraocular lens prosthesis inserted
• Incision closure method
• Use of antibiotic solution

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 66984, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with other codes for complex extracapsular cataract removal, endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation, or intraocular aqueous drainage device insertion. Modifier 78 may be used if an unrelated procedure is performed during the postoperative period. Additionally, side modifiers (LT or RT) should be appended to indicate which eye was treated.

8. Historical information

CPT 66984 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been updates to the code, with the most recent change occurring on January 1, 2020, to clarify the description of the procedure.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs extracapsular cataract removal with the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis using phacoemulsification for a patient with impaired vision due to cataracts.
2. During the procedure, the provider uses irrigation and aspiration to remove the cloudy lens and inserts an intraocular lens prosthesis to improve the patient’s vision.
3. After the surgery, the patient’s vision significantly improves, and they no longer require glasses for distance vision.
4. Another provider performs extracapsular cataract removal with the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis using manual techniques for a patient with cataracts in both eyes.
5. The provider performs the procedure on the patient’s right eye first and schedules a separate surgery for the left eye after the appropriate healing period.
6. Both surgeries are successful, and the patient experiences improved vision in both eyes.
7. A different provider performs extracapsular cataract removal with the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis for a patient with cataracts and glaucoma.
8. The provider carefully manages the patient’s intraocular pressure during the procedure to ensure optimal outcomes for both conditions.
9. The patient’s vision improves, and their glaucoma is effectively managed with the combination of cataract removal and intraocular lens insertion.
10. Another provider performs extracapsular cataract removal with the insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis for a patient with cataracts and astigmatism.
11. The provider selects a specific intraocular lens prosthesis to correct the patient’s astigmatism and improve their overall vision.